Latest news with #VictoriaMemorial
Hindustan Times
5 days ago
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Prayagraj's British-era Mayo Hall Sports Complex gets facade glow-up
The historical building from the British rule era, Mayo Hall Sports Complex, has joined the list of monuments and buildings that have been decorated with facade lighting—an effort to boost the tourism potential of the city—after Prayagraj witnessed an unprecedented 66 crore visitor footfall from across the world during the recently concluded Mahakumbh 2025. According to regional tourism officer Aparajita Singh, the façade lighting for the sports complex—one of the oldest in the country built by the British—was planned for the financial year 2024–25. However, owing to excessive work and crowd pressure during Mahakumbh 2025, the same could not be completed in the last financial year, she added. As per Singh, the tourism department had got facade lights installed at the giant structure under the Mahakumbh scheme last month, after which its maintenance was handed over to the UP Project Corporation. The bill for the power consumed by it would be paid by the Sports Complex authorities. According to project manager, UP Project Corporation, Prayagraj region, Rajesh Sharma, the tourism department handed over the maintenance of the facade lights installed on Mayo Hall Sports Complex to the Project Corporation this month. As per Sharma, several other sites in Prayagraj are also on the list to be illuminated with façade lights before the 2031 Kumbh Mela, some of which include Victoria Memorial, Allahabad Museum, Minto Park, Chowk Clock Tower, etc. The facade lighting on Mayo Hall Sports Complex was carried out with a budget of ₹1.95 crore. It may be mentioned that before Mahakumbh 2025—organised between January 13 and February 26, 2025—several ancient temples and buildings, besides the New Yamuna Bridge, were decorated with façade lighting. These include Nagvasuki Temple, Shankar Viman Mandapam, Maa Alopshankari Temple, Akbar's Fort, New Yamuna Bridge, Shastri Bridge, etc.
India.com
03-06-2025
- General
- India.com
10 Must-Know Facts That Make Kolkata City Unique
Kolkata bears its former name Calcutta as it positions itself as one of the culturally significant areas in India. The metropolis resides along the Hooghly River in West Bengal where it has become an essential part of modern India's development. Kolkata shows a special combination of historical elements with cultural diversity and modern development which extends from its colonial background through to its energetic cultural expression. The following ten noteworthy details provide essential information about Kolkata which stands as 'The City of Joy.' 1. The Cultural Capital of India People consider Kolkata to hold cultural capital status in India because of its deep artistic heritage in literature and art together with its important role in music and filmmaking. The city held Nobel laureates Rabindranath Tagore who received Literature and Amartya Sen who won Economics awards and filmmaker Satyajit Ray whose work found success worldwide. The city of Kolkata displays its everlasting passion for culture by hosting the festive Kolkata Book Fair together with its famous Durga Puja celebrations. Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay and his son Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay joined other literary masters to set Kolkata as an intellectual center. 2. A Colonial Legacy Job Charnock initiated Kolkata with the British East India Company during 1690 before it became the official capital of British India from 1690 to 1911. The historic phase brought forward the creation of Victoria Memorial in addition to St. Paul's Cathedral and Writers Building as a reminder of colonial architectural achievements. The engineering masterpiece of Howrah Bridge which finished without any nuts or bolts during 1943 represents a prominent historical monument of Kolkata. These architectural marvels continue to welcome visitors while preserving their historical significance which represents the long journey of Kolkata. 3. The Birthplace of Indian Nationalism During the Indian independence movement Kolkata served as an active force that contributed critically to the Indian battle. In 1885 the first session of Indian National Congress took place at this location under the direction of Allan Octavian Hume. Through the city leaders Subhas Chandra Bose and Netaji rose as pivotal figures who founded mass freedom movements against British rule. Notable parts of the Indian freedom movement were shaped by Kolkata residents Madan Mohan Malaviya who became a Jallianwala Bagh martyr and by revolutionary Khudiram Bose. 4. Home to the Oldest Operating Port in India The Kolkata Port Trust which formed in 1870 maintains operation of one of India's oldest working ports. The eastern Indian coast port connects eastern Indian regions to Bangladesh and Nepal and Bhutan by providing trade access. Throughout its more than 150-year history the port has continued operating actively to support both regional business growth and economic development. 5. Diverse Culinary Heritage Kolkata stands apart because of its exclusive food culture that incorporates flavors from Bengali as well as Mughal and Chinese and British cooking styles. Two standout traditional delicacies of Bengal are rasgulla and phuchka (also known as golgappa), together with mishti doi (yogurt sweetened with sugar). People of Kolkata love fish curries specially cooked with hilsa and other notable Bengali fish varieties. The Anglo-Indian population in Kolkata is active with traditional food choices including mutton chop and baked beans. 6. The Largest Flower Market in Asia The flower market at Nakshi Bazar ranks as Asia's largest such market and operates in the vicinity of the Howrah Bridge. Thousands of vendors appear each dawn to offer fresh floral products which come from local nearby villages. What people crave most about Nakshi Bazar is its selection of marigolds together with roses and orchids and jasmine flowers that serve local residents and ritual needs. The marketplace draws viewers through its vibrant atmosphere while demonstrating the regular activities of Kolkatans. 7. Pioneering Educational Institutions Many historic Indian educational institutions choose Kolkata as their headquarters while their origins stem from the colonial times. Since 1857 the University of Calcutta has operated as the inaugural South Asian institution dedicated to modern university education. Jadavpur University and Presidency University and the Indian Institute of Management Calcutta (IIM-C) jointly rank among the top universities in India and appear repeatedly in national university rankings. These educational institutions have generated numerous scholars together with scientists and leaders who have developed India's academic domain. 8. The Tram Network – A Nostalgic Ride The tram system located in Kolkata remains the only functional network within India thus making it a distinctive component of the urban transportation system. Indian citizens experienced emotions of nostalgia when British Raj established these tram services in 1873 because they offered environmentally-friendly transportation. The number of trams in use has decreased through the years yet initiatives strive to protect them as a part of Kolkata's historical legacy. Traveling by tram through the city lets people enjoy its vintage atmosphere. 9. A Hub for Hand-Pulled Rickshaws The operation of hand-pulled rickshaws exists only in specific regions of Kolkata that center on Esplanade and Sealdah. The human-operated transportation system remains a direct link to a previous period through time. Hand-drawn rickshaws continue to honor Kolkata's character through their continued operation while supplying income to disadvantaged employees. 10. Durga Puja: A UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage During December 2021 UNESCO designated Durga Puja in Kolkata as one of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. During September or October people celebrate five days of festivities to worship the goddess Durga in her triumph over bad forces. Annually millions of people visit structures among the throng of pandals that display beautiful decorations with idols honoring the deity. Durga Puja connects people socially and encourages creative artistry to become a vital organizational value in Kolkata's cultural heritage. Finak Thoughts Kolkata surpasses mere municipal status because it functions as a cultural repository that merges the passage of time with current progress and traditional practices with new ideas. This lively metropolis offers something unique to appeal to everyone including its colonial heritage alongside its celebration events and its intellectual heritage. These ten facts about Kolkata provide a deeper understanding that helps people recognize its worldwide appeal as a city of amazement.
India.com
03-06-2025
- Entertainment
- India.com
Top Photography Spots In Kolkata That Look Stunning In Monsoon
The cultural metropolis of India known as Kolkata displays breathtaking pictures during its monsoonal season. The combination of colonial buildings and vegetation along with city vitality emerge more vividly through wet weather which creates exceptional photo opportunities. The seven locations in Kolkata become especially photogenic during rainy months because they attract photography enthusiasts and any city visitors who enjoy lens-based exploration. 1. Victoria Memorial: A Timeless Marvel Visitors can find the Victoria Memorial at the top of their must-see locations in Kolkata and photographers should make it their priority each year. During the monsoon season the white marble building becomes a radiant sight because rain droplets create sparkling effects across its surfaces. Rain transforms the gardens into rich-flowering paradise that displays the mighty structure through reflective pools. The right time to photograph these scenes is during the early part of the day or through the late hours with light that softens during the monsoon season. 2. Howrah Bridge The official name of Howrah Bridge as Rabindra Setu reveals its double purpose as an engineering triumph and photography dream subject. The seasonal water surge of the Hooghly River together with gray skies produces an atmospheric mood around the steel building. Take nighttime photographs of the bridge because the city illumination interacts with water reflections to create an altered reality. Pictures of ordinary people moving through rainfall together with street vendors selling umbrellas help bring personality to your photographs. 3. Maidan and Fort William Maidan provides Kolkata residents with 1,300 acres of urban parkland which acts as an oasis against daily urban commotion. The expansive green landscape during the monsoon season becomes irresistible when scenario-forming trees create protective shelters from the rain. The historical site of Fort William nearby brings colonial charm when added to the surrounding scenery. To show the contrast between expansive foliage and strong fort walls photographers should use wide-angle lenses for their photos. 4. Park Street Cemetery: Where History Meets Nature The Park Street neighborhood shelters this historic cemetery which serves as a photographic haven for photographers who want historical peace. A nostalgic atmosphere emerges when rains fall on moss-covered gravestones along moistened pathways during the monsoon season. The cemetery is hidden by thick vegetation that creates an enchanting setting which photographers can use for surreal image capture. To achieve the dreamy effect in your pictures you should arrive at the location during morning hours when the fog remains in the air. 5. Alipore Zoological Gardens: Wildlife Amidst Raindrops The Alipore Zoological Gardens foundation dates back to 1876 making it the oldest zoo in India while hosting a wide array of plant and animal species. The zoo transforms into a vibrant lively habitat during the monsoon when both animals become more active and numerous plants flourish because of regular rainfall. Seeing animals in their habitats while they play within scenes of flowing water-occluded vegetation results in dramatic wildlife imagery. A camera gear protection cover needs to be included in your shooting supplies. 6. Rabindra Sarobar Lake: Reflections of Serenity Formerly Dhakuria Lake the present-day Rabindra Sarobar exists as a silent sanctuary which is bordered by pathways and covered in vegetation. When monsoon arrives the lake will become entirely full until its reflective surface duplicates the surrounding cloudy sky. The boating activities in the area operate throughout rainstorms which create changing water effects such as wave patterns and surface reflections that improve your photography pictures. The environment surrounding the lake provides macrophotography chances to snap rain-wet flowers alongside rain-drops on insects and other natural miniscule marvels. 7. College Street and Coffee House: Culture Under Umbrellas Visitors to Kolkata are obliged to go to College Street because it stands as the city's definitive intellectual meeting point. The Indian Coffee House together with several bookstores make this popular street truly special during November rainfall. Outdoor pedestrians are adorned with colorful umbrellas and the aroma of hot coffee keeps people warm under rainy conditions. Photographers of the street find profitable opportunities in this area to capture genuine images featuring academic students along with their scholars and vendors as they represent the city's blend of academic and cultural life. Tips for Monsoon Photography in Kolkata You can find endless opportunities for stunning photos throughout these locations yet shooting in the monsoon needs several preparations beforehand. Camera protection requires you to buy waterproof gear sleeves or create homemade solutions with plastic bags to defend your equipment from water damage. Natural outdoor illumination transforms into a large illuminating box which softens contrast and boosts color intensity. Adapt your camera settings when using this gentle illumination because you want to optimize the available light. Close-up pictures frequently appear stunning when you photograph water droplets and puddles as well as reflections that show up in leaves. The speed of weather changes during monsoon requires photographers to wait until rain stops or dramatic clouds appear to maximize their shooting opportunities. Conclusion Kolkata during monsoon becomes an ideal setting for photography as numerous sites display stories which photographers wish to document. From the timeless elegance of Victoria Memorial to the vibrant chaos of Howrah Bridge and the tranquil beauty of Rabindra Sarobar Lake, these spots showcase the city's multifaceted personality. The city welcomes photographers with unique subjects that match their personal interests whether those subjects pertain to architecture, street life or nature. Bring your camera out because the city of Kolkata demands your photography art along with its rainy weather.
India.com
27-05-2025
- India.com
Unmapped Alleys In Kolkata City That Reveal The City's Oldest Stories
Kolkata, also known as the City of Joy, is an enigma wrapped in culture, history, and nostalgia. Although Kolkata's stunning landmarks, such as the Howrah Bridge and Victoria Memorial, are appreciated, what truly makes the city special is tucked away in the fringes. These fringes hide Kolkata's most poignant secrets that rarely receive the recognition they deserve. Allow us to dive into these hidden mysteries and discover the stories waiting to be told. Chitpur Road; Untold Stories of the Old Bazaar Chitpur Road is one of the oldest streets in Kolkata, going as far back as the city's origin. The street was a segment of the ancient trade route which facilitated trade between Northern India and Bengal, making it rich in culture and artistry. If you take a walk around Chitpur, you can still spot a few traditional kathputli (puppet-making) workshops and even a few remaining letterpress printing shops. Chitpur roads' bazaars are quite rejuvenating. The wide variety of products available for sale, such as brass pots and antique books offer a look back in time. Certain stores have been around for more than a decade and have been handed down from family generation to family generation. Additionally, folk-musicians, known as kirtaniya singers, who sing epic tales and myths also reside in this alley. Bow Barracks: A Chunk of Anglo-Indian Legacy Bow Barracks, a nondescript lane in Kolkata, is home to a rich community. Constructed as a housing unit for soldiers from the First World War, it later became populated by Anglo-Indian families over the years. Nowadays, the red-brick structures can be seen with flowering balconies and narrow corridors alongside them, giving them an old world charm. Come Christmas, and the spirit of this community will tell you about the old Kolkata that used to flourish with multicultural harmony. For those that visit, Bow Barracks transforms during the holiday season, featuring fairy lights, traditional plum cakes, and heartfelt carol singing. Kumartuli: The Potter's Village Kumartuli is a network of streets lying beside the Hooghly River known for idol making. This is the famous alley where the grand figurines of Goddess Durga are sculpted. The potters or kumars here expertly sculpt the clay into stunning idols that are exported to various countries around the globe, not just India. Modernism and tradition come together seamlessly here. While the core of Kumartuli remains focused on crafting the idol using old techniques, many workshops have begun to use modern designs and eco-friendly materials. Shobhabazar Rajbari: Recalling the Glory In North Kolkata, Shobhabazar Rajbari is a majestic mansion which dates back to the 18th century. Although the building is in ruins and covered with moss due to its age, it is a telltale of Bengal's Rajbari aristocracy. Raja Nabakrishna Deb built this mansion, along with the rest of the city, during the colonial period, and it now serves as a piece of history. During the British colonial rule, British officers would often visit India to celebrate the Durga Puja festivities at Rajbari, which makes the building much more glorious than it already is. Shobhabazar Rajbari is renowned for housing extensive collections of ancient glory as well as the powerful pieces of devotion. College Street Lanes: Where Knowledge Breathes Surprisingly enough, the primary reason West Bengal is famous around the globe is because of the exquisite and jaw dropping collections of second hand books available at the College Street. Side lanes and alleyways of the street have some astonishing hidden secrets due to the presence of checkered stands selling antique books. In the alleyway, there is a branch of the legendary Indian Coffee House, a popular spot for students eager to indulge in sprawling debates over essays and pieces of literature. Great artists and intellectuals such as Rabindranath Tagore, Satyajit Ray, or even Subhas Chandra Bose once roamed the streets, ultimately helping shape the future of Kolkata. Pathuriaghata: A Hidden Gem Pathuriaghata feels like an alleyway that hasn't had much recent history. This region of North Kolkata is filled with decaying grand mansions that were owned by wealthy Bengali families during the 19th century. Every house shows the tale of extravagance, artistry, and their gradual decline into obscurity. As you stroll through Pathuriaghata, you begin to feel as though you are piecing together a long lost piece of Kalikata's history. The area is also home to stunning marble temples and exquisitely designed wooden gates that showcase its architectural splendor. The Importance of This Area These forgotten alleys in Kolkata are not only a geographical boundary, but a walking museum, encapsulating the city's past. From idol sculpting to Anglo-Indian culture, these lanes keep alive tales that the modern city often drowns. Next time you are in Kolkata, I highly recommend spending time wandering through these alleyways, instead of following the crowded tourist paths. Trust me, if you explore these hidden paths, you will come across a Kolkata unlike anything you've seen before, a Kolkata standing still in time.
The Hindu
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
How artist Paresh Maity has taken his works across the globe
Last week, the world got to witness, once again, the celebrated artist Paresh Maity's dedication to the craft he has made his. He made his Cannes Film Festival debut at the age of 60 with the watercolour 'Himalayas to the Indian Ocean', which was unveiled on May 18. This work showcased the breath-taking landscapes of the Indian subcontinent. Then, the influencer Shalini Passi wore a Manish Malhotra creation inspired by Paresh's 'Longitude 77'. 'From the Himalayas to Kanyakumari, every thread tells a story. This is not just couture, it is a canvas, blending my love for art, fashion and India. Grateful to represent our heritage on a global stage,' Shalini shared on Instagram. From the Venice Biennale to the red carpet at Cannes, Paresh's ability to blend tradition with contemporary artistry has captivated audiences worldwide. For Paresh, the Cannes Film Festival is like the Olympics for films. 'My art is always a celebration of energy and joy. To be there at Cannes, in that atmosphere, gives me excitement and inspiration,' he adds. Paresh's journey, from Purba Medinipur (West Bengal) to the global stage, stands as a testament to his perseverance and ability to innovate. 'I come from a lower middle class family with no exposure to art. When I was seven, I was introduced to art in school. I then knew that I would do this till the last day of my life. I started clay modelling and sculpture, making clay toys and trying to sell them at village fairs. Till Class 10, I used to make huge Saraswatis and Kalis during Durga Puja and sell them to pandals to support my family,' he shares. Soon after, Paresh dabbled with watercolour. Known for his ability to experiment with a multitude of styles and media, Paresh has earned the title of the 'Turner of India'. His works have been exhibited in renowned galleries and museums worldwide. 'I use watercolours, oils and acrylics, often in bold colours and forms. I do not create the canvas, the subject calls to me. If it is a serene landscape, my preferred medium is watercolour, complex compositions require oils, acrylics and so on. I do not choose the medium and then decide on the subject, but, let the subject decide the medium,' Paresh explains. In his artistic journey, Paresh, who was bestowed with the Padma Shri in 2014, has transcended traditional boundaries, creating some significant pieces of public art in India. His latest is a stunning Jackfruit sculpture in front of Victoria Memorial, Kolkata. This whimsical and vibrant piece reflects Paresh's ability to stay contemporary and in touch with his roots. One of his iconic creations is the Bankura Horse, a traditional symbol of rural Bengal. Paresh breathes new life into this age-old motif, recreating images on them and marking his insignia. Paresh often reminisces about his days as an art school student, where he would spend hours experimenting with different media and styles. And, he continues to innovate — be it using bells to create sculptures (a huge bull) or transforming Bankura Horses into a canvas for Bollywood portraits. He has also curated interactive performances with sarod artists Amaan and Ayaan Ali Bangash, and has been known to paint to the strains of their virtuoso father Ustad Amjad Ali Khan's Malhar. At the 60th edition of La Biennale di Venezia (Venice Art Biennale) in 2024, which explored the theme of 'foreignness', Paresh was among the 12 Indian artists who showcased their work — his creation was the sculpture 'Genesis'.
